Author: Rajul

It’s Time To Order Your Spring Bulbs

“What, now!? It’s only just summer,” I hear you cry. But yes, indeed, this is the ideal time to consider how you would like your garden to look next spring. All of the spring bulbs I planted in autumn have now bloomed, and I can see where they worked well, where I had gaps, and what I’d like to change… Read more →

Front Garden Makeover

My front garden is getting a makeover. We’ve done a fair bit to the front garden since moving in, in 2012. I filled the borders with shrubs, perennials and bulbs, and planted a Rowan tree. I planted fragrant climbing roses against the house. We put in cheap and cheerful raised beds so we could grow fruit and veg. It’s the… Read more →

Garden :: Loves and Hates

Last week, I asked my design students at the Norfolk School of Gardening to do a quick homework assignment. They had to send me two images: one image of a garden feature that they love, and one of something they hate. The pictures could be taken from magazines or websites, or taken during their travels in the week. It could… Read more →

How To Make Elderflower Cordial

We made elderflower cordial for the first time last week, and it was so much easier than I expected. It’s an ideal weekend job, and a British summer classic. The fragrant, flowery, lemony flavour is delicious. Here’s how we did it: 1. Collect some flowers Elderflowers can be found everywhere at the moment in hedgerows and on trees. If you’re… Read more →

How To Green-Up Your Driveway

Many front gardens are essentially a driveway, maybe with the odd tree or shrub in a pot, but with little in the way of wildlife-friendly greenery. I totally understand why you might prefer to park your car off the road. What I don’t like is the way these driveways become desolate, lifeless spaces. With bee and wild bird numbers declining,… Read more →

My Garden :: Video Tour

I’ve done a video tour of my back garden to share with you while we’re all stuck at home due to Covid 19. As you’ll see, my garden is far from perfect and in need of lots of tlc. The weather is set to be lovely tomorrow, so I’m looking forward to getting it in better shape in the sunshine.… Read more →

New Stu-stu-studio!!

As a rule, I start to feel gloomy when the clocks go back. This year, I remain chipper because of my fabulous new ’shed’. I finally have a proper design studio*, rather than a weeny desk in the corner of our bedroom. I might just move out there, it’s sooo wonderful. There’s a photo tour below for your delectation! (*Correct pronunciation: “Stu-stu-studio” ala… Read more →

My First Video Post :: Mum’s Garden Tour

I’ve made my first video! I’ve managed to overcome my horror of hearing and seeing myself on a screen – still feeling a bit embarrassed about it. The kids say my voice sounds a bit different in real life. And apologies for the number of times I say “AMAZING” OR “ummm”. This is a quick video tour of my mum’s… Read more →